The state Department of Natural Resources is seeking volunteers to help with this year’s effort.

Bullfrog. Credit: MDNR

The DNR says declining populations of frogs, toads and other amphibians have been documented worldwide since the 1980s. Studies suggest they’re disappearing due to habitat loss, pollution, disease and collection.

The surveys are conducted by volunteer observers along a statewide system of permanent survey routes, each consisting of 10 wetland sites. The sites are visited three times during spring, when frogs and toads are actively breeding. Observers listen for calling frogs and toads at each site, identify the species present and make an estimate of abundance.

New volunteers are needed in all parts of the state.

Michigan’s is the second-longest-running survey in the country, after Wisconsin.